Photos: Parakeet orphans rescued in India

A recently hatched Alexandrine parakeet is held on March 25 by Harmesh Bhatt, the founder of the Asha Foundation animal shelter and hospital in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. Nearly 50 Alexandrine parakeets were recently rescued and are currently being cared for at the animal shelter, which specializes in the rehabilitation of street animals.

Protected under India's Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, Alexandrine parakeets are named for Alexander the Great, who exported a number of specimens back to ancient Greece after visiting the southeast Asian region of Punjab.

A flock of young, featherless parakeets are herded together on March 25 by Bhatt. As they reach maturity, the birds grow bright green feathers with maroon accents, and because they tolerate captivity well, they are considered excellent domestic pets.